Skin treatments with carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to novel carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives, skin treatment compositions containing these carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives, methods of treating skin changes by topical application of these carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives, and their methods of synthesis. The carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the present invention are unexpectedly effective in treating skin, particularly with respect to skin tolerance. When included in a topical composition, the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the present invention have an antioxidant effect that is useful in treating a skin change.

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/103,043 filed Oct. 6, 2008, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to topical dermatological compositionscontaining an effective amount of a carboxylic acid-substitutedidebenone derivative. In particular, the invention relates tocompositions that provide effective protection from damaging oxidationprocesses in the skin leading to skin changes, and also provideprotection for the compositions themselves (including, for example, theconstituents of cosmetic compositions containing these carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives) from damaging oxidationprocesses. Furthermore, the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of the present invention show significant skin tolerance(i.e., non-irritation), support vesicular breathing and cellularrespiration, contribute to stabilization of mitochondrial membranes, andpromote the regeneration and vitality of skin cells.

BACKGROUND

Skin is exposed to damage resulting from various sources, including bothenvironmental factors and biochemical processes. Oxidative processesdamage proteins, lipids, and other cellular components necessary tomaintain the health and appearance of skin, resulting in skin changes,such as skin aging (e.g., age spots), hyperpigmentation, UV damage,lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture (e.g., cellulitis), etc. Oxidativedamage to the skin and its more detailed causes are listed in Miyachi,Y: “Skin diseases associated with oxidative injury,” Fuchs J, Packer L(eds.), OXIDATIVE STRESS IN DERMATOLOGY, Marcel Dekker, New York, pp.323-331 (1993).

The damaging effects of the UV part of solar radiation on the skin aregenerally known. While rays having a wavelength which is less than 290nm (the UVC range), are absorbed by the ozone layer in the earth'satmosphere, rays in the range between 290 nm and 320 nm (the UVB range),cause an erythema, simple sunburn or even more or less severe burns. Thenarrower range around 308 nm is given as a maximum for erythema activityof sunlight. For protection against UVB radiation, numerous compoundsare known, in which they are derivatives of 3-benzylidene camphor,4-aminobenzoic acid, cinnamic acid, salicylic acid, benzophenone andalso 2-phenylbenzimidazole. Also, for the range between about 320 nm andabout 400 nm (the UVA range) it is important to have filter substancesavailable, since its rats may cause reactions in light-sensitive skin.It has been proven that UVA radiation leads to damage of the elastic andcollagenic fibres of the connective tissue, which allows the skin to ageprematurely, and that it is to be regarded as a cause of numerousphototoxic and photoallergic reactions. The damaging influence of UVBradiation may be amplified by UVA radiation. It has also been proventhat consumption of lipophilic antioxidants, for example,alpha-tocopherol, is triggered in the skin by UVA and UVB radiation(Thiele et al., J. Invest. Dermatol. 100, p. 756 ff. (1998)).

Further, UV radiation is ionizing radiation. Hence, there is the riskthat ionic species are produced on UV exposure, which then in turn areable to intervene oxidatively in the biochemical processes.

For protection against the rays of the UVA range, certain derivatives ofdibenzoylmethane have therefore been used, the photostability of which(Int. J. Cosm. Science 10, 53 (1988)) is not provided to an adequateextent. UV radiation, however, may also lead to photochemical reactions,wherein then the photochemical reaction products intervene in the skinmechanism.

Predominantly such photochemical reaction products are free radicalcompounds, for example hydroxyl radicals. Also, undefined free radicalphotoproducts, which are produced in the skin itself, may triggeruncontrolled side reactions due to their high reactivity. Singletoxygen, a non-free radical excited state of the oxygen molecule,however, may occur in UV irradiation, short-lived epoxides and manyothers. Singlet oxygen, for example, is characterized with respect tothe normally existing triplet oxygen (free radical base state) byincreased reactivity. Nevertheless, excited, reactive (free radical)triplet states of the oxygen molecule also exist. Furthermore, there isthe occurrence of lipid peroxidation products, such as hydroperoxidesand aldehydes, wherein first in turn free radical chain reactions may betriggered and to which overall cytotoxic properties have to be ascribed(Michiels and Ramacle, Toxicology, 66, 225 ff. (1990)). Lipidperoxidation is an oxidative process that degrades lipids, wherein freeradicals steal electrons from the lipids in cell membranes, causingoxidative stress and cell damage.

Light-sensitive skin includes the disorder photodermatoses(photosensitive eruptions). Further designations for the polymorphiclight-dermatosis are PLD, PLE, Mallorca Acne and a plurality of furtherdesignations, as are given in the literature (e.g., A. Voelckel et al.,Zentralblatt Hautund Geschlechtskrankheiten (1989), 156, p. 2).

Erythematous skin symptoms also occur as concomitant symptoms in certainskin diseases or skin irregularities. For example, the typical rash inthe clinical picture of acne is regularly reddened to a greater orlesser extent.

In order to prevent these reactions, additional antioxidants and/or freeradical absorbers/scavengers may be incorporated in cosmetic ordermatological formulations. Antioxidants are substances that scavengefree radicals and prevent oxidation processes or prevent theauto-oxidation of fats containing unsaturated compounds. Antioxidantsused in the field of cosmetics and pharmacy are, for example,alpha-tocopherol, in particular in the form of alpha-tocopheryulacetate, sesamol, colic acid derivatives, butylhydroxy anisole,butylhydroxy toluene, and idebenone. Antioxidants are mainly used asprotective substances against the decay of the compositions containingthem. However, it is known that undesirable oxidation processes may alsooccur in the human and animal skin. Such processes play a considerablepart in skin aging. Thus, antioxidants and/or free radical absorbers mayadditionally be incorporated into cosmetic formulations to treat orprevent damage caused by oxidative and degenerative biochemicalprocesses. It has been proposed to use vitamin E (U.S. Pat. Nos.4,144,325 and 4,248,861), a substance having known anti-oxidative actionin sunscreen formulations, but even here the action achieved remains farbelow that hoped for. Tocopherol (a vitamin E antioxidant), for example,degrades to form pro-oxidative products.

Idebenone (6-(10-hydroxydecyl)-2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone)has been used previously to treat skin changes. For example, U.S. Pat.No. 6,756,045, describes the use of idebenone as a topical compositionfor treating skin changes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I: 1.

wherein R¹ is a C₂₋₂₂ straight or branched sugar acid, and wherein twoor more hydroxy groups on the sugar acid are each independentlysubstituted with a C₁₋₂₂ carboxylic acid.

The present invention also relates to a method of preparing a compoundof general Formula I by coupling a corresponding di-, tri-, orpoly-carboxylic acid functionalized sugar acid to idebenone. Forexample, a method of preparing idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate includesthe steps of: subjecting benzyl acrylate to a dihydroxylation reactionto form benzyl 2,3-dihydroxypropanoate; reacting the benzyl2,3-dihydroxypropanoate with palmitoyl chloride to form3-(benzyloxy)-3-oxopropane-1,2diyl dipalmitate; reacting the3-(benzyloxy)-3-oxopropane-1,2diyl dipalmitate with ethyl acetate toform 2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)propanoic acid; and reacting the2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)propanoic acid with idebenone to form idebenonedipalmitoyl glycerate.

The present invention also relates to a composition comprising acompound of general Formula I and at least one additive.

Further, the present invention relates to a method of treating a skinchange, comprising topically administering a composition comprising atherapeutically effective amount of a compound of general Formula Ito asubject in need thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the presentinvention are antioxidants and provide a significant benefit in treatingand preventing skin damage and unwanted skin changes caused by oxidativeand degenerative processes. The inventors have surprisingly discoveredthat compositions prepared with carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of the present invention provide a major improvement overcomparable compositions prepared with underivatized idebenone or withunderivatized idebenone substituted with a monocarboxylic acid. Notably,neither underivatized idebenone nor underivatized idebenone substitutedwith a monocarboxylic acid include a sugar acid attached to idebenone,as in the compounds of the present invention. Rather, the carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the present invention aresurprisingly and significantly more effective in treating skin changesand show significantly increased skin tolerance. Consequently, thesecompounds provide a major advance and improvement in skin treatmentcompositions.

For example, delivery of the active ingredient (idebenone) is enhancedbecause the present carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivativesincrease skin permeability by virtue of the presence of carboxylic acids(particularly di-, tri-, or poly-fatty acids) that render the compoundmore soluble across the stratum corneum lipid bi-layers of the skin thatare composed of ceramides, cholesterol, and essential fatty acids.Delivery of the active ingredient is also enhanced because the presentcarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives increase cellpermeability, which occurs because cell membranes are composed of fatsoluble lipids. Additionally, compositions prepared with the presentcarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives are able to provide aslow release therapy as the compound hydrolyzes in the skin over time.

All of the foregoing advances associated with carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the present invention (i.e.,reduced skin irriation, reduced inflammation, increased skinpermeability, increased cell permeability, and slow release therapy)lead to improved skin conformity, and allow the skin treatmentcompositions of the present invention to be used on more skin types,more skin conditions, and on more areas of the body than has beeneffectively feasible using comparable compositions prepared withunderivatized idebenone or underivatized idebenone substituted with amonocarboxylic acid. Moreover, the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of the present invention have been found to be morehypo-allergenic and achieve improved efficacy in treating skin damage(e.g., brown pigmentation) when compared with underivatized idebenone orunderivatized idebenone substituted with a monocarboxylic acid.

The carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the presentinvention may be prepared and used in topical compositions for thetreatment of skin changes. The compositions of the invention may includeother components or additives, such as glycosaminoglycans and theirsalts, in particular hyaluronic acids having a molecular weight of 1 to1,000,000 and their salts, or hyaluronidase inhibitors, such asinter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor. The compositions of the invention can beused to treat or prevent a wide variety of skin changes (e.g.,erythematous), inflammatory, allergic or autoimmune-reactive symptoms(e.g., dermatoses), skin changes in light-sensitive skin (e.g.,photodermatoses), hyperpigmentation (e.g., age spots), and damagingeffects of the UV part of solar radiation on the skin.

The present invention comprises compounds of Formula I:

wherein R¹ is a C₂₋₂₂ straight or branched sugar acid, and wherein twoor more hydroxy groups on the sugar acid are each independentlysubstituted with a C₁₋₂₂ carboxylic acid. Preferably, 2, 3, 4, or 5hydroxy groups of the sugar acid are each independently substituted witha C₁₋₂₂ carboxylic acid. Preferred compounds of the present inventionmay also include fewer hydroxy groups substituted with longer chaincarboxylic acids or more hydroxy groups substituted with shorter chaincarboxylic acids.

Suitable carboxylic acids for use in the present invention includemonocarboxylic acids or polycarboxylic acids. The carboxylic acids maybe straight chained, saturated carboxylic acids (e.g., formic acid,acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid,enanthic acid, caprylic acid, pelargonic acid, capric acid, lauric acid,palmitic acid, and stearic acid) or short-chain unsaturatedmonocarboxylic acids (e.g., acrylic acid).

Preferably, carboxylic acids of the present invention are fatty acids(e.g., conjugate fatty acids, medium to long-chain saturated andunsaturated monocarboxylic acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid, andeicosapentaenoic acid). Carboxylic acids for use in the presentinvention also include amino acids, keto acids (e.g., pyruvic acid,acetoacetic acid), aromatic carboxylic acids (e.g., benzoic acid,salicylic acid), dicarboxylic acids (e.g., aldaric acid, oxalic acid,malonic acid, malic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid,maleic acid, fumaric acid, phthalic acid, etc.), tricarboxylic acids(e.g., citric acid, isocitric acid, aconitic acid,propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid (e.g., tricarballylic acid, carballylicacid)), alpha hydroxycarboxylic acids (e.g., glycolic acid, lactic acid,hydroxyacrylic acid, oxybutyric acid, glyceric acid, malic acid,tartaric acid and citric acid), and hyaluronic acid.

“Sugar acid” is defined as a straight or branched, saturated orunsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted C₂₋₂₂ (preferably C₂₋₁₀, morepreferably C₂₋₅) alkyl group substituted with two or more carboxylgroups wherein the hydroxy functional groups of two or more carboxylgroups are each independently substituted with a C₁₋₂₂ carboxylic acid(preferably C₁₄₋₂₀, more preferably C₁₅₋₁₈). “Branched” refers to one ormore lower alkyl groups such as methyl, ethyl, or propyl attached to alinear alkyl chain. Preferably, 2, 3, 4, or 5 hydroxy groups on thesugar acid are each independently substituted with a C₁₋₂₂ carboxylicacid.

The inventors have found that compounds of the present invention aresurprisingly effective in treating skin changes because they provide theadded benefits of reduced skin irriation, reduced inflammation,increased skin permeability, increased cell permeability, and slowrelease therapy.

In a preferred embodiment, the compound of Formula I is3-oxo-3-(9-(2,4,5-trimethyl-3,6-dioxocyclohexa-1,4-dienyl)monyloxy)propane-1,2-diyldipalmitate (idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate), wherein R¹ is a C₂ sugaracid wherein two hydroxy groups are each independently substituted witha C₁₆ carboxylic acid. The structure of idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerateis shown below:

In another embodiment, the present invention includes topicalcompositions comprising carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives (e.g., idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate or another compoundof Formula I) and at least one additive. The composition may be providedin a form selected from creams, lotions, solutions, sera, anhydrouspreparations, emulsions, microemulsions, multiple emulsions, gels, solidsticks, ointments, and aerosols. The at least one additive may beselected from surfactants, cosmetic auxiliaries, pigments, UVA filters,UVB filters, propellants, thickening agents, emulsifiers, solvents,water, antioxidants, perfumes, dyestuffs, deodorants, antimicrobialmaterials, back-fatting agents, complexing and sequestering agents,pearlescent agents, plant extracts, vitamins, and combinations thereof.

In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method ofmaking carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of generalFormula I. In general, compounds of the present invention are made bysyntheses that include a reaction well known in the art as a Fischeresterification, by which a carboxylic acid reacts with an alcohol toform an ester, as generically illustrated below:

For example, a compound of general Formula I (wherein R¹ is a C₂₋₂₂straight or branched sugar acid, and wherein two or more hydroxy groupson the sugar acid are each independently substituted with a C₁₋₂₂carboxylic acid) may be made by coupling a di-, tri-, or poly-carboxylicacid functionalized sugar acid to idebenone.

In one embodiment, compounds of the present invention may be synthesizedby the following reaction scheme:

where R¹ and R² are as defined above.

For example, idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate may be prepared by a methodcomprising the steps of (a) subjecting benzyl acrylate to adihydroxylation reaction to form benzyl 2,3-dihydroxypropanoate; (b)reacting the benzyl 2,3-dihydroxypropanoate with palmitoyl chloride toform 3-(benzyloxy)-3-oxopropane-1,2diyl dipalmitate; (c) reacting the3-(benzyloxy)-3-oxopropane-1,2diyl dipalmitate with ethyl acetate toform 2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)propanoic acid; and (d) reacting the2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)propanoic acid with idebenone to form idebenonedipalmitoyl glycerate.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method oftreating or preventing the worsening of a skin change or (e.g., skinaging (e.g., age spots, wrinkling, fine lines), hyperpigmentation (e.g.,age spots), UV damage, erythematous, cellulitis, inflammatory symptoms,photodamage, photoreactions, etc.) comprising topically administering aneffective amount of a carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivativeof the present invention (e.g., idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate) to apatient in need thereof. Compositions of the present invention may beused to reduce, if not completely prevent, damage to the skin caused byoxidative influence, and cause a regenerating and vitalizing effect onaging, stressed, or damaged skin by supporting vesicular breathing,stabilization of mitochondrial membranes, and anti-apoptotic properties.These methods of treating a skin change comprise topically administeringa composition of the present invention (containing a carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivative, particularly of Formula I, andpreferably idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate) to a subject in needthereof, wherein the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivative ispresent in a therapeutically effective amount. These compositions maycontain a carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivative in atherapeutically effective amount of 0.0001 wt % to 30 wt %, preferably0.05 wt % to 5 wt %, more preferably 0.1 wt % to 2.0 wt %, based on thetotal weight of the composition. The skin change may be selected fromskin aging, hyperpigmentation, skin changes caused by UV damage, andskin changes that comprise erythematous symptoms.

The compounds of Formula I may be used in topical cosmetic ordermatological compositions and act as antioxidants and free radicalabsorbers/scavengers. These compounds provide better prevention ofdamage to lipids, DNA, and proteins and also better prevent skin agingand wrinkle formation. Examples of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of Formula I include, but are not limited to: idebenonedipalmitoyl glycerate, idebenone dimyristoyl glycerate, idebenonedioleyl glycerate, idebenone dilinoleyl glycerate, idebenonedieicosapentaenyl glycerate, idebenone dierucyl glycerate, and otheridebenone sugar acid derivatives with two carboxylic acid substitutions,as well as idebenone trimyristoyl trihydroxypropanoate, idebenonetrioleyl trihydroxypropanoate, idebenone trilinoleyltrihydroxypropanoate, idebenone trieicosapentaenyl trihydroxypropanoate,and idebenone trierucyl trihydroxypropanoate, and other idebenone sugaracid derivatives with three carboxylic acid substitutions, etc.

Compositions comprising carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of the present invention protect the skin againstphoto-reactions and prevent or treat inflammatory reactions. It couldnot have been foreseen that topical application of the carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivative compounds, such as those thatcontain di-, tri-, or poly-fatty acids, would result in significantlyless skin irritation or inflammation than similar compositionscontaining underivatized idebenone or underivatized idebenonesubstituted with a monocarboxylic acid (see Examples). This was asurprising result. The compositions of the present invention alsoexhibit greater stability than other skin care active ingredients, suchas vitamin C and vitamin E. By exhibiting significantly increased skintolerance, the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of thepresent invention are surprisingly and significantly more effective intreating skin changes than similar compositions containing underivatizedidebenone or underivatized idebenone substituted with a monocarboxylicacid.

The compositions of the present invention may contain at least oneadditive. Suitable additives include, but are not limited to,surfactants, cosmetic auxiliaries, pigments, UVA filters, UVB filters,propellants, thickening agents, emulsifiers, solvents (e.g., alcoholicsolvents), water, antioxidants, perfumes, dyestuffs, deodorants,antimicrobial materials, back-fatting agents, complexing andsequestering agents, pearlescent agents, plant extracts, vitamins,active ingredients, and/or derivatives and combinations thereof.

Pro-oxidative degradation products do not occur when using carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives of Formula I. The use ofcarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives as antioxidants andtheir use for combating and/or prophylaxis of skin aging caused byoxidative stress and inflammatory reactions are within the scope of thepresent invention. The use of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives as antioxidants for the stabilization of cosmetic ordermatological compositions, which contain as additive either vitamin Aand/or its derivatives (for example, all-E-retinoic acid, 9-Z-retionoisacid, 13-Z-retinoic acid, retinal, retinal ester), vitamin B and/or itsderivatives, vitamin C and/or its derivatives and vitamin E and/or itsderivatives (for example, alpha-tocopherol acetate) individually or incombination, is thus likewise within the scope of the present invention.The stabilizing effect of the present invention relates to both smelland color and in particular to the active ingredient content of thecomposition.

Further, the use of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives asan agent for supporting vesicular breathing and stabilization ofmitochondrial membranes with additional anti-apoptotic effect in skincells and its use for the regeneration and revitalization of aging,stressed or damaged skin, is within the scope of the present invention.

The cosmetic or dermatological compositions of the invention may beconventionally prepared and then used to provide treatment, care, andcleansing of the skin, and as a make-up product in decorative cosmetics.For administration, the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of the invention may be topically applied to the skin incosmetic and dermatological compositions of the invention in the mannerconventional for cosmetics.

Cosmetic and dermatological compositions of the invention may exist invarious forms. Hence, they may be, for example, a solution, a serum, ananhydrous preparation, an emulsion or microemulsion of the typewater-in-oil (W/O) or of the type oil-in-water (O/W), a multipleemulsion, for example of the type water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W), a gel,a solid stick, an ointment or an aerosol. It is also advantageous toadminister carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives inencapsulated form, for example in collagen matrices and otherconventional encapsulation materials, for example as celluloseencapsulations, in gelatin, wax matrices or liposomally encapsulated.

It is also possible and advantageous within the scope of the presentinvention to add carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives toaqueous systems or surfactant compositions for cleansing the skin.

The use of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives for theprotection of the skin from oxidative stress is also regarded as anadvantageous embodiment of the present invention, in particular the useof carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives in washingformulations.

The cosmetic and dermatological compositions of the invention maycontain cosmetic auxiliaries, as are used conventionally in suchcompositions, for example preservatives, bactericides, perfumes,substances for preventing foaming, dyestuffs, pigments which have acoloring effect, thickening agents, surfactant substances, emulsifiers,softening, moisturizing and/or moisture-retaining substances, fats,oils, waxes or other conventional constituents of a cosmetic ordermatological formulation, such as alcohols, polyols, polymers, foamstabilizers, electrolytes, organic solvents or silicone derivatives.

In particular, carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives mayalso be combined according to the invention with other antioxidantsand/or free radical absorbers. All antioxidants which are suitable orconventional for cosmetic and/or dermatological applications may be usedaccording to the invention as favorable antioxidants. The antioxidantsare advantageously selected from the group consisting of resveratrol,amino acids (e.g., glycine, histidine, tyrosine, tryptophan) and theirderivatives, imidazoles (e.g., urocanic acid) and their derivatives,peptides, such as D,L-carnosine, D-carnosine, L-carnosine and theirderivatives (e.g., anserine), carotinoids, carotenes (e.g.,alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene) and their derivatives,chlorogenic acid and its derivatives, lipoic acid and its derivatives(e.g., dihydrolipoic acid), aurothioglucose, propylthiouracil and otherthiols (e.g., thioredoxin, glutathione, cysteine, cystine, cystamine andtheir glycosyl, N-acetyl, methyl, ethyl, propyl, amyl, butyl and lauryl,palmitoyl, oleyl, gamma-linoleyl, cholesteryl and glyceryl esters) andtheir salts, dilauryl thiodipropionate, distearyl thiodipropionate,thiodipropionic acid and their derivatives (esters, ethers, peptides,lipids, nucleotides, nucleosides and salts) and sulphoximine compounds(e.g., buthionine sulphoximines, homocysteine sulphoximine, buthioninesulphones, pentathionine sulphoximine, hexathionine sulphoximine,heptathionine sulphoximine) in very low, acceptable doses (e.g., pmoleto μmmoles/kg), also (metal) chelating agents (e.g., alpha-hydroxy fattyacids, palmitic acid, phytic acid, lactoferrin), alpha-hydroxy acids(e.g., citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, mandelic acid), humic acid,colic acid, colic extracts, bilirubin, biliverdin, EDTA, EGTA and theirderivatives, unsaturated fatty acids and their derivatives (e.g.,gamma-linolenic acid, linolic acid, oleic acid), folic acid and theirderivatives, ubiquinone and ubiquinol and their derivatives, vitamin Cand derivatives (e.g., ascorbyl palmitate, Mg-ascorbyl phosphate,ascorbyl acetate), tocopherols and derivatives (e.g., vitamin Eacetate), vitamin A and derivatives (e.g., vitamin A palmitate) andconiferyl benzoate of benzoin resin, rutinic acid and their derivatives,butylhydroxy toluene, butylhydroxy anisole, nordihydroguaiacic acid,nordihydroguaiaretic acid, trihydroxybutyrophenone, uric acid and itsderivatives, mannose and its derivatives, sesamol, sesamolin, zinc andits derivatives (e.g., ZnO, ZnSO₄), selenium and its derivatives (e.g.,selenium methionine), stilbenes and their derivatives (e.g., stilbeneoxide, trans-stilbene oxide, resveratrol) and the suitable derivativesof the invention (salts, esters, ethers, sugars, nucleotides,nucleosides, peptides and lipids) of these said active ingredients.

The quantity of the aforementioned antioxidants (one or more compounds)in the compositions may be 0.0001 wt % to 30 wt %, preferably 0.05 wt %to 20 wt %, more preferably 1-10 wt %, based on the total weight of thecomposition.

Provided vitamin E, resveratrol, and/or their derivatives represent theadditional antioxidant(s), it is advantageous to select their particularconcentration from the range from 0.0001-20 wt %, based on the totalweight of the composition.

Provided vitamin A or vitamin A derivatives or carotenes or theirderivatives represent the additional antioxidant(s), it is advantageousto select their particular concentrations from the range from 0.0001-10wt %, based on the total weight of the composition.

Emulsions according to the present invention are advantageous andcontain, for example the afore-mentioned fats, oils, waxes and otheradipoids, and water and an emulsifier, as is used conventionally forsuch a type of formulation.

The lipid phase may advantageously be selected from the followingsubstance group: mineral oils, mineral waxes; oils, such astriglycerides of capric or caprylic acid, also natural oils, such as forexample castor oil; fats, waxes and other natural and syntheticadipoids, preferably esters of fatty acids with alcohols of low Cnumber, for example with isopropanol, propylene glycol or glycerine, oresters of fatty alcohols with alkane acids of low C number or with fattyacids; alkyl benzoates; silicone oils, such as dimethylpolysiloxanes,diethylpolysiloxanes, diphenylpolysiloxanes and mixtures thereof.

The oil phase of the emulsions, oleogels or hydrodispersions orlipodispersions within the scope of the present invention isadvantageously selected from the group of esters of saturated and/orunsaturated, branched and/or unbranched alkane carboxylic acids of chainlength from 3 to 30 C atoms and saturated and/or unsaturated, branchedand/or unbranched alcohols of chain length from 3 to 30 C atoms, fromthe group of esters from aromatic carboxylic acids and saturated and/orunsaturated, branched and/or unbranched alcohols of chain length from 3to 30 C atoms. Such ester oils may then advantageously be selected fromthe group isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate,isopropyl oleate, n-butyl stearate, n-hexyl laurate, n-decyloleate,isooctyl stearate, isononyl stearate, isononyl isononanoate,2-ethylhexyl palmitate, 2-ethylhexyl laurate, 2-hexyldecyl stearate,2-octyldodecyl palmitate, oleyl oleate, oleyl erucate, erucyl oleate,erucyl erucate and synthetic, semi-synthetic, and natural mixtures ofsuch esters, for example jojoba oil.

Furthermore, the oil phase may advantageously be selected from the groupof branched and unbranched hydrocarbons and waxes, silicone oils,dialkyl ethers, the group of saturated or unsaturated, branched orunbranched alcohols, and fatty acid triglycerides, namely thetriglycerine esters of saturated and/or unsaturated, branched and/orunbranched alkane carboxylic acids of chain length from 8 to 24, inparticular 12-18, C atoms. The fatty acid triglycerides mayadvantageously be selected, for example from the group of synthetic,semi-synthetic and natural oils, for example olive oil, sunflower oil,soybean oil, peanut oil, rape-seed oil, almond oil, palm oil, coconutoil, palm kernel oil and the like.

Also any mixtures of such oil and wax components can be usedadvantageously within the scope of the present invention. It may alsooptionally be advantageous to use waxes, for example cetyl palmitate, asthe single lipid component of the oil phase.

The oil phase is advantageously selected from the group 2-ethylhexylisostearate, octyl dodecanol, isotridecyl isononanoate, isoeicosane,2-ethylhexyl cocoate, C₁₂₋₁₅ alkyl benzoate, capryl-capric acidtriglyceride, dicaprylyl ether.

Mixtures of C₁₂₋₁₅ alkyl benzoate and 2-ethylhexyl isostearate, mixturesof C₁₂₋₁₅ alkyl benzoate and isotridecyl isononanoate and mixtures ofC₁₂₋₁₅ alkyl benzoate, 2-ethylhexyl isostearate and isotridecylisononanoate are particularly advantageous.

Of the hydrocarbons, paraffin oil, squalane and squalene can be usedadvantageously within the scope of the present invention.

The oil phase may advantageously also contain cyclic or linear siliconeoils or may consist completely of such oils, but wherein it ispreferable, apart from the silicone oil or the silicone oils, to use anadditional amount of other oil phase components.

Cyclomethicone (octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane) is advantageously employedas silicone oil to be used according to the invention. However, othersilicone oils should also advantageously be used within the scope of thepresent invention, for example hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane,polydimethylsiloxane, poly(methylphenylsiloxane).

Mixtures of cyclomethicone and isotridecyl isononanoate, ofcyclomethicone and 2-ethylhexyl isostearate, are also particularlyadvantageous.

The aqueous phase of the compositions of the invention may optionallycontain advantageously alcohols, diols or polyols of low C number, andtheir ethers, preferably ethanol, isopropanol, propylene glycol,glycerine, ethylene glycol, ethylene glycol monoethyl or monobutylether, propylene glycol monomethyl, monoethyl or monobutyl ether,diethylene glycol monomethyl or monoethyl ether and analogous products,also alcohols of low C number, for example ethanol, isopropanol,1,2-propane diol, glycerine and in particular one or more thickeningagents, which may advantageously be selected from the group silicondioxide, aluminum silicates, polysaccharides or their derivatives, forexample hyaluronic acid, xanthan gum, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose,particularly advantageously from the group of polyacrylates, in eachcase individually or in combination.

Mixtures of the above-mentioned solvents are used in particular. Foralcoholic solvents, water may be a further constituent.

Gels according to the present invention conventionally contain alcoholsof low C number, for example ethanol, isopropanol, 1,2-propane diol,glycerine and water or an above-mentioned oil in the presence of athickening agent, which for oily-alcoholic gels is preferably silicondioxide or an aluminum silicate, for aqueous-alcoholic or alcoholic gelsis preferably a polyacrylate.

The conventionally-known, highly volatile, liquefied propellants, forexample hydrocarbons (propane, butane, isobutane), which may be usedalone or mixed with one another, are suitable as propellants forcompositions which can be sprayed from aerosol containers according tothe present invention: Compressed air can also advantageously be used.

Compositions according to the present invention may also advantageouslycontain substances which absorb UV radiation in the UVB range, whereinthe total quantity of filter substances is, for example 0.1 wt % to 30wt %, preferably 0.5 to 10 wt %, more preferably 1.0 to 6.0 wt %, basedon the total weight of the compositions, in order to provide cosmeticcompositions which protect the skin from the entire range of ultravioletradiation. They may also serve as sunscreen agents for the skin.

If the compositions according to the present invention contain UVBfilter substances, they may be oil-soluble or water-soluble. Accordingto the invention, advantageous oil-soluble UVB filters are, for example:mineral oils, mineral waxes; oils, such as triglycerides of capric orcaprylic acid, also natural oils, such as for example castor oil; fats,waxes and other natural and synthetic adipoids, preferably esters offatty acids with alcohols of low C number, for example with isopropanol,propylene glycol or glycerine, or esters of fatty alcohols with alkaneacids of low C number or with fatty acids; alkyl benzoates; siliconeoils, such as dimethylpolysiloxanes, diethylpolysiloxanes,diphenylpolysiloxanes and mixtures thereof. 3-benzylidene camphorderivatives, preferably 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor, 3-benzylidenecamphor; 4-aminobenzoic acid derivatives, preferably(2-ethylhexyl)4-(dimethylamino)benzoate, amyl 4-(dimethylamino)benzoate;esters of cinnamic acid, preferably (2-ethylhexyl) 4-methoxycinnamate,isopentyl 4-methoxycinnamate; esters of salicylic acid, preferably(2-ethylhexyl)salicylate, (4-isopropyl-benzyl)salicylate, homomentylsalicylate, derivatives of benzophenone, preferably2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone,2-hy-droxy-4-methoxy-4′-methylbenzophenone,2,2′-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone; esters of benzylidenemalonic acid,preferably di(2-ethylhexyl) 4-methoxybenzylidenemalonate,-2,4,6-trianilino(p-carbo-2′-ethyl-1′hexyloxy)-1,3,5-triazine.

Advantageous water-soluble UVB filters are, for example: salts of2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulphonic acid, such as its sodium, potassium orits triethanol-ammonium salt, and the sulphonic acid itself; sulphonicacid derivatives of benzophenones, preferably2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone-5-sulphonic acid and their salts;sulphonic acid derivatives of 3-benzylidene camphor, such as for example4-(2-oxo-3-bornylidene-methyl)benzene sulphonic acid,2-methyl-5-(2-oxo-3-bornylidene-methyl)sulphonic acid and their salts aswell as 1,4-di(2-oxo-10-sulpho-3-bornylidene-methyl)benzene and itssalts (the corresponding 10-sulphato compounds, for example thecorresponding sodium, potassium or triethanol; -ammonium salt), alsodesignated as benzene-1,4-di(2-oxo-1-bornylidene-methyl)-10-sulphonicacid.

The list of the said UVB filters, which may be used in combination withthe active ingredient combinations of the present invention, should notbe limiting.

Also within the scope of the present invention is the use of acombination of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives with atleast one UVB filter as antioxidant or the use of a combination ofcarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives with at least one UVBfilter as antioxidant in a cosmetic or dermatological composition.

It may also be advantageous to combine carboxylic acid-substitutedidebenone derivatives with UVA filters, which hitherto areconventionally present in cosmetic compositions. These substances arepreferably derivatives of dibenzoylmethane, in particular1-(4′-tert.butylphenyl)-3-(4′-methoxyphenyl)propane-1,3-dione and1-phenyl-3-(4′-isopropyl-phenyl)propane-1,3-dione. These combinations orcompositions which contain these combinations are also an object of theinvention. The quantities used for the UVB combination may be used.

Also within the scope of the present invention is the use of acombination of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives with atleast one UVA filter as antioxidant or the use of a combination of theactive ingredient combinations of the invention with at least one UVAfilter as antioxidant in a cosmetic or dermatological composition.

Also within the scope of the present invention is the use of acombination of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives with atleast one UVA filter and at least one UVB filter as antioxidant or theuse of a combination of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives with at least one UVA filter and at least one UVB filter asantioxidant in a cosmetic or dermatological composition.

Cosmetic and dermatological compositions having an effective amount ofcarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives may also containinorganic pigments, which are used conventionally in cosmetics toprotect the skin from UV rays. They are oxides of titanium, zinc,zirconium, silicon, manganese, cerium and mixtures thereof, andmodifications in which the oxides are the active agents. They areparticularly preferably pigments based on titanium dioxide.

These combinations of UVA filters and pigment or compositions containingthis combination are also within the scope of the present invention. Thequantities mentioned for the above combinations may be used.

Cosmetic compositions which are a skin-cleansing agent or shampooingagent preferably contain at least one anionic, non-ionic or amphotericsurfactant substance, or also mixtures of such substances, carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives in aqueous medium andauxiliaries, as are used conventionally therefore. The surfactantsubstance or the mixtures of these substances may be present in theshampooing agent in a concentration between 1 wt % and 50 wt %.

These cosmetic or dermatological compositions may also be aerosolshaving the auxiliaries conventionally used therefor.

Aqueous cosmetic cleansing agents of the invention or low-water oranhydrous cleansing agent concentrates intended for aqueous cleansingmay contain anionic, nonionic and/or amphoteric surfactants, for exampletraditional soaps, for example fatty acid salts of sodium alkylsulphates, alkyl ether sulphates, alkane and alkyl benzene sulphonatessulphoacetates sulphobetaines sarcosinates amidosulphobetainessulphosuccinates sulphosuccinic acid semi-esters alkyl ethercarboxylates protein-fatty acid condensates alkylbetaines andamidobetaines fatty acid alkanol amides polyglycol ether derivatives.

Cosmetic compositions which are cosmetic cleansing compositions for theskin, may be present in liquid or solid form. In addition to carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives, they preferably contain at leastone anionic, non-ionic or amphoteric surfactant substance or mixturesthereof, if required one or more electrolytes and auxiliaries, as areused conventionally therefor. The surfactant substance may be present inthe cleansing compositions in a concentration between 0.001 and 99.999wt %, based on the total weight of the compositions.

Cosmetic compositions which are a shampooing agent, in addition to aeffective amount of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives,preferably contain an anionic, non-anionic or amphoteric surfactantsubstance or mixture thereof, optionally an electrolyte of the inventionand auxiliaries, as are used conventionally therefor. The surfactantsubstance may be present in the shampooing agent in a concentrationbetween 0.001 wt % and 99.999 wt %.

The compositions according to the present invention contain, apart fromthe afore-mentioned surfactants, water and optionally the additiveswhich are conventional in cosmetics, for example perfume, thickener,dyestuffs, deodorants, antimicrobial materials, back-fatting agents,complexing and sequestering agents, pearlescent agents, plant extracts,vitamins and/or their derivatives, active ingredients and the like.

The present invention also includes a cosmetic process for protectingthe skin and the hair from oxidative or photooxidative processes, whichis characterized in that a cosmetic agent, which contains an effectiveconcentration of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives, isapplied to the skin or hair in adequate quantity.

Likewise, the present invention also includes a process for protectingcosmetic or dermatological compositions from oxidation orphoto-oxidation, wherein these compositions, for example compositionsfor treating and caring for the hair are, in particular hair lacquers,shampooing agents, also make-up products, such as for example nailvarnishes, lipsticks, foundations, washing and showering compositions,creams for treating or caring for skin or other cosmetic compositions,the constituents of which may bring with them stability problems due tooxidation or photo-oxidation on storage, characterized in that thecosmetic compositions have an effective amount of carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives.

The quantity of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives inthese compositions may be 0.0001-30 wt %, preferably 0.05-5 wt %, morepreferably 0.1-2.0 wt %, based on the total weight of the compositions.

Also within the scope of the present invention are processes forproducing the cosmetic agents of the invention, which is characterizedin that active ingredient combinations of the invention are incorporatedinto cosmetic and dermatological formulations in a manner known to oneof skill in the art.

EXAMPLES

The use of these and other examples anywhere in the specification isillustrative only, and in no way limits the scope and meaning of theinvention or of any exemplified form. Likewise, the invention is notlimited to any particular preferred embodiments described herein.Indeed, modifications and variations of the invention may be apparent tothose skilled in the art upon reading this specification, and can bemade without departing from its spirit and scope. The invention istherefore to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, alongwith the full scope of equivalents to which the claims are entitled.

Example 1 Synthesis of Idebenone Dipalmitoyl Glycerate

This example provides a synthesis of3-oxo-3-(9-(2,4,5-trimethyl-3,6-dioxocyclohexa-1,4-dienyl)monyloxy)propane-1,2-diyldipalmitate (Compound 5; idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate), which isrepresentative of the carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivativesof the present invention.

A starting material in the idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate synthesis isbenzyl acrylate (Compound 1), which may be subjected to various chemicalreactions in order to form a crude diol oil (Compound 2). This diol isthen subjected to an acylation reaction with palmitoyl chloride in thepresence of various reagents (TEA, 4-DMAP, and CH₂Cl₂) in order to forma tri-ester, Compound 3. This product is then reacted with ethyl acetate(AcOEt) in the presence of various reagents (H₂ and Pd—C (10%)) to forman acid, Compound 4. Then, Compound 4 is combined with a solvent(SOCl₂/CH₂Cl₂) and reacted with idebenone in the presence of variousreagents (TEA, 4-DMAP, and CH₂Cl₂) to form the end product, Compound 5(idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate).

The dihydroxylation of benzyl acrylate (Compound 1) to form Compound 2may be performed in various ways. One method is to react benzyl acrylate(1.0 mmol) with 0.4 mol % of potassium osmate dihydrate, threeequivalents of potassium ferricyanate (III), and three equivalents ofpotassium carbonate in a 1:1 mixture of t-butanol and water. (Angew.Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. 1996, 35, 448-451). Stir the reaction at roomtemperature for approximately 21 hours. It may be necessary to add moreof the osmate catalyst to drive the reaction to completion. After anaqueous workup, the crude diol (Compound 2) is obtained in an almostquantitative yield.

Another method for dihydroxylation of benzyl acrylate is to usenon-volatile potassium osmate dihydrate. (J. Org. Chem. 1998, 6094).Benzyl acrylate (1.0 mmol) was reacted with 0.5 mol % of potassiumosmate dihydrate, 1.3 equivalents of N-methylmorpholine N-oxide (NMO) ina 1:1:1 solvent mixture of water:acetone:acetonitrile at roomtemperature. The reaction was complete in 12 hours. After an aqueousworkup, the crude diol (Compound 2) was obtained as an oil in nearlyquantitative yield. The proton NMR indicated that the crude diol was˜95% pure. This crude oil became dark brown after standing overnight atroom temperature. Probably a small amount of residual osmate was presentin the crude diol and was responsible for the color change. The work-upconditions may be modified to include a bisulfite wash and/or a plugfiltration to move any baseline impurities. If the darkening cannot beeliminated, the crude diol (Compound 2) may be taken directly on to thetri-ester (Compound 3) and purified at the acid stage of Compound 4.

The crude oil was purified by column chromatography to identify the diol(Compound 2). This compound did not ionize with electrospray LC/MS. Theproton NMR confirmed the desired product, Compound 2, had been prepared.

Example 2 Compositions Containing Compounds of the Present Invention

Compositions containing carboxylic acid-substituted idebenonederivatives of the present invention should preferably be free ofsensitizing agents (e.g., paraben). Suitable compositions according tothe present invention may be prepared with various ingredients, asdescribed below. The “CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative” referenced in eachcomposition in this example refers to a carboxylic acid-substitutedidebenone derivative of the present invention, such as idebenonedipalmitoyl glycerate.

Facial Cleanser of the present invention containing: Aqua, SodiumLauroyl Oat Amino-Acids, Sodium C12-16 Olefin Sulfonate,Cocamidopropylamine Oxide, Sodium Lactate, PEG-6 Caprylic/CapricGlycerides, Sucrose Polysoyate, PEG-6 Lauramide, Lactic Acid, CI 77891,Glycerin, Glycol Palmitate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-33, CA-SubIdebenone Derivative, Salicylic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,Coco-Glucoside, Coconut Alcohol, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, PEG-120Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Aluminum Hydroxide,Stearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, andPhenoxyethanol.

Eye Serum of the present invention containing. Aqua, Sodium Lactate,Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, AlgaeExtract, CI-77891, Glycerin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3, Glycerine, LacticAcid, Decene/Butene Copolymer, Caffeine, CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative,Retinol, Chondrus Crispus, Phenyl Trimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane,Phospholipids, Dimethiconol, Xanthan Gum, Glucose, Aluminum Hydroxide,Hydrated Silica, Alginic Acid, CI-77489, Silica, Sodium Polyacrylate,PVM/MA Copolymer, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, C20-22 AlkylPhosphate, C20-22 Alcohols, Polysorbate 20, Acrylamide/SodiumAcryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Polysorbate 80,Hydroxyethylcellulose, Triethanolamine, Disodium EDTA, andPhenoxyethanol.

Moisturizing Facial Cream of the present invention containing: Aqua,Sodium Lactate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Bis-HydroxyethoxypropylDimethicone, Glycerin, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Lactic Acid,Cetearyl Glucoside, Glycine Soja Protein, Oxido Reductases, CA-SubIdebenone Derivative, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium PCA, Urea,Trehalose, Chondrus Crispus, Glucose, Isohexadecane, Polyquaternium-51,Sodium Polyacrylate, PVM/MA Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Cetearyl Olivate,Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polysorbate 20,Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysorbate 80,Hydroxyethylcellulose, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Steareth-100,CI-77891, Hydrogenated Glyceridic Oil, Disodium EDTA, andPhenoxyethanol.

Treatment Peel of the present invention containing: Lactic Acid, Aqua,SD Alcohol 40-B, Ammonium Lactate, Salicylic Acid, CA-Sub IdebenoneDerivative, and Hydroxyethylcellulose.

Alternative composition (e.g., cream) of the present inventioncontaining: Aqua, Glycerin, Cetyl Ricinoleate, Isohexadecane, Ceresin,Glyceryl Stearate, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sericin, Dimethicone,PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Steareth-2, Sodium PCA, PEG-100Stearate, CI-77891, CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative, Cholesterol, CeramideIII, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Tocopherol, Panicum MiliaceumExtract, Glycosaminoglycans, BHT, Propylene Glycol, Styrene AcrylatesCopolymer, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Ammonium Hydroxide, PEG-30Dipolyhydroxystearate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum,Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Disodium EDTA, and Phenoxyethanol.

Alternative composition (e.g., cream) of the present inventioncontaining: Aqua, Sodium Lactate, Glycerin, Sucrose Cocoate, LacticAcid, Isohexadecane, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glyceryl Stearate,PEG-100 Stearate, Sorbitan Stearate, Steareth-2, CI-77891, MagnesiumAluminum Silicate, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Butylene Glycol,Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate, CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative, Retinol,Tocopherol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Moms Alba Leaf Extract,Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera Extract, MagnesiumAscorbyl Phosphate, BHT, Bisabolol, Allantoin Glycyrrhetinic Acid,Dimethicone, Polysorbate 20, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Xanthan Gum,Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Disodium EDTA, Propylene Glycol, StyreneAcrylates Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Ammonium Hydroxide, andPhenoxyethanol.

Sun Protector of the present invention containing: Zinc Oxide,Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, Octisalate, Aqua, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, PEG-20Stearate, CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative, Pentylene Glycol, GlycerylStearate, Laureth-23, Silica, Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone,Cetearyl Alcohol, Coco-Glucoside, Butyrospermum Parkii Extract,Phospholipids, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Butylene Glycol,Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol,Carbomer, Sodium DNA, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium CetylPhosphate, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides,Dimethoxydiphenylsilane/Triethoxycaprylylsilane Crosspolymer, XanthanGum, Disodium EDTA, Diazolidinyl Urea, and Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate.

Environmental Protector of the present invention containing: Aqua,Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate,Stearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative, SuperoxideDismutase, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, andPhenoxyethanol.

Prophetic Composition (e.g., body cream) of the present inventioncontaining at least: CA-Sub Idebenone Derivative, Resveratrol, Xanthin(e.g., Caffeine), AHA (Lactic Acid), and Stimulators of CollagenSynthesis (as, e.g., Vitamin C and derivatives thereof).

Example 3 Maximization Test of Idebenone Dipalmitoyl Glycerate

A study was performed to evaluate the contact-sensitizing potential of atopical Facial Cream containing idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate(Vehicle+1% idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate) using the MaximizationTest. The test was a repeat insult patch test wherein the test materialwas applied under an occlusive dressing to the upper outer arm, volarforearm or back repeatedly to the same site for five 48-hour inductionperiods, followed 10-14 days later by a single challenge to a naive skinsite. The test sample was coded Cream A and tested as supplied viz.neat. All test materials were stored under ambient conditions in aninaccessible location under the supervision of the investigator.

The test subjects were all healthy, adult volunteers over the age of 18years. None of the subjects had a medical or dermatological illness andnone were sensitive to sunlight or to topical preparations and/orcosmetics. The criteria for exclusion were: history of sunhypersensitivity and photosensitive dermatoses; history of allergy orhypersensitivity to cosmetics, toiletries or other dermatologicalproducts; history of recurrent dermatological diseases, e.g., psoriasis,atopic eczema; pregnancy or mothers who were breastfeeding; scars, molesor other blemishes over the upper arm(s), volar forearm(s) or back whichcould have interfered with the study; history of recurrent urticaria orhives; subjects who were receiving systemic or topical drugs ormedications which could interfere with delayed immunologic responsese.g., corticosteroids; history of allergies to the test product orcomponents in the test product; other conditions considered by theinvestigator as sound reasons for disqualification from enrollment intothe study.

The patch was applied to the upper outer arm, volar forearm or the backof each subject. The entire test was composed of two distinct phases: anInduction phase and a Challenge phase.

Induction Phase: Approximately 0.05 ml of aqueous SLS (0.25%) wasapplied to a designated site under a 15 mm disc of Webril cotton clothand the patch was fastened to the skin with occlusive tape for a periodof 24 hours. After 24 hours, the SLS patch was removed and 0.05 ml ofthe test material was applied to the same site before the site was againcovered with occlusive tape (induction patch). The induction patch wasleft in place for 48 hours (or for 72 hours when placed over a weekend)after which it was removed and the site again examined for irritation.If no irritation was present, a 0.25% aqueous SLS patch was againreapplied to the same site for 24 hours, followed by reapplication of afresh induction patch with the test material to the same site. Thissequence viz. 24 hour SLS pre-treatment followed by 48 hours of testmaterial application was continued for a total of 5 induction exposures.If irritation developed at any time-point during the induction phase aspreviously outlined, the 24-hour SLS pre-treatment patch was eliminatedand only the test material was reapplied to the same site after a24-hour rest period during which no patch was applied. The aim duringthis phase of the study was to maintain at least a minimal degree ofirritation in order to enhance penetration through the corneum barrier.

Challenge Phase: After a ten day rest period which follows the lastinduction patch application, the subjects were challenged with a singleapplication of the test material to a new skin site on the opposite arm,forearm or side of back in order to determine if sensitization haddeveloped. Pre-treatment with SLS was performed prior to challenge.Approximately 0.05 ml of a 5.0% aqueous solution was applied to a freshskin site under a 15 mm disc of Webril cotton and covered with occlusivetape. The SLS patch was left in place for one hour. It was then removedand the test material was applied to the same site. The challenge patchwas then covered by occlusive tape and left in place for 48 hours. Afterthat period, the patch was removed and the site graded 15-30 minuteslater and again 24 hours later for any reaction.

Scoring Scale:

0=not sensitized

1=mild sensitization (viz. erythema and a little edema)

2=moderate sensitization (erythema with infiltration, raised, spreadingbeyond the borders of the patch, with or without vesiculation)

3=strong sensitization (large vesiculo-bullous reaction).

Based on these findings, the number of subjects with positive responseswere tabulated for the test material. The test system shown in Table Iwas used to classify the allergenic potential of the test substance.

TABLE I Sensitization Rate Grade Classification 0-2/25 1 Weak 3-7/25 2Mild  8-13/25 3 Moderate 14-20/25 4 Strong 21-25/25 5 Extreme

A total of 27 healthy, adult volunteers of both sexes who satisfied theinclusion criteria were enrolled into this study. There were 21 femalesand 6 males. Their ages ranged from 21 to 65 years. All 27 subjectscompleted the study. No adverse or unexpected reactions were seen in anyof the panelists during the induction phase.

Results: No instances of contact allergy were recorded in any of the 27subjects at either 48 or 72 hours after the application of the challengepatches. A successful compound is considered to be a compound thatelicits no reaction or response from a subject.

Conclusion: Cream A containing idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate does notpossess a detectable contact-sensitizing potential and hence is notlikely to cause contact sensitivity reactions under normal useconditions.

Further, idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate is representative of the fullgenus of carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives encompassedby general Formula I, any one of which (and particularly thosecontaining di-, tri-, or poly-fatty acid chains) would be expected toexhibit analogous efficacy and skin tolerance due, e.g., to their highmolecular weight. For instance, idebenone dimyristoyl glycerate,idebenone dioleyl glycerate, idebenone dilinoleyl glycerate, idebenonedieicosapentaenyl glycerate, idebenone dierucyl glycerate, idebenonetrimyristoyl trihydroxypropanoate, idebenone trioleyltrihydroxypropanoate, idebenone trilinoleyl trihydroxypropanoate,idebenone trieicosapentaenyl trihydroxypropanoate, and idebenonetrierucyl trihydroxypropanoate would all be expected to be highlyeffective in treating skin changes and providing the added benefits ofreduced skin irriation, reduced inflammation, increased skinpermeability, increased cell permeability, and slow release therapy. Akey structural feature common to all carboxylic acid-substitutedidebenone derivatives of Formula I is the presence of two or morecarboxylic acids (particularly di-, tri-, or poly-fatty acids) thatrender the compound more soluble across the stratum corneum lipidbi-layers of the skin, enhance delivery of the active ingredient byenhancing permeability of cell membranes, and provide a slow releasetherapy as the compound hydrolyzes in the skin.

Example 4 Clinical Evaluation of Idebenone Dipalmitoyl Glycerate

A six-week double-blind clinical evaluation was performed, comparing acontrol vehicle to idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate for the treatment ofred and brown pigmented skin. Approximately 36 women, ages 40-70 withmoderate hyperpigmentation and reddening of the skin were selected toparticipate in the study. Subjects were randomly assigned to one ofthree groups. Group I received a product with no idebenone activeingredient (vehicle), Group II received the same vehicle with 0.5%Idebenone (Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone) added, and Group III received thesame vehicle with 0.5% of Idebenone Dipalmitoyl Glycerate added.Subjects were instructed to apply the product twice a day (morning andevening) to the facial area for 6 weeks. Canfield VISIA-CR RBX imageswere made at baseline and after 6 weeks use and analyzed. Digital and UVphotographs were also taken, standardizing distance and positioning ofthe subjects, pre and post product application.

Based on the expert grading and review of the Canfield VISIA-CR RBXimages, 27%, 58%, and 58% of the subjects responded with less redness inGroup I, Group II, and Group III, respectively. Similarly, 18%, 67%, 75%of the subjects responded with a decrease in brown pigmentation in GroupI, Group II, and Group III, respectively. Thus, idebenone dipalmitoylglycerate achieved an overall improved effect as compared tounderivatized idebenone or underivatized idebenone substituted with amonocarboxylic acid.

Idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate, tested in Examples 3 and 4, isrepresentative of the full scope of carboxylic acid-substitutedidebenone derivatives encompassed by general Formula I. Analogousresults, particularly with respect to efficacy and skin tolerance (e.g.,not causing contact sensitivity in skin), would be expected if othercompounds of Formula I were tested using the same form (i.e., a cream)or a different form (e.g., a lotion or ointment) as that described inExamples 3 and 4.

Example 5 Comparative Clinical Sensitization Testing

Clinical sensitization testing was performed on two idebenone estershaving relatively low molecular weights (as compared to the compounds ofthe present invention)—idebenone linoleate ester and idebenone phosphateester, the structures of which are shown below:

The same testing protocol described in Example 3 was used in thecomparative clinical sensitization tests in this example, but ondifferent panels of subjects.

In the idebenone linoleate ester test (Vehicle+1% idebenone linoleateester), 25 healthy, adult volunteers of both sexes who satisfied theinclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. All of the subjectscompleted this study. Results: One subject exhibited a positivereaction—i.e., a recordable level of skin sensitization. Sensitizationin even one subject constitutes a failure. Hence, compositionscontaining idebenone linoleate ester do not possess the added benefitsof reduced skin irriation and reduced inflammation, as found in thecarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the presentinvention.

In the idebenone phosphate ester test (Vehicle+1% idebenone phosphateester), 29 healthy, adult volunteers of both sexes who satisfied theinclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. There were 23 females and6 males, ranging in age from 19 to 65 years. All of the subjectscompleted this study. Results: Four subjects exhibited positivereactions i.e., a recordable level of skin sensitization. Sincesensitization in even one subject constitutes a failure, compositionscontaining idebenone phosphate ester do not possess the added benefitsof reduced skin irriation and reduced inflammation, as found in thecarboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the presentinvention.

Conclusion: The foregoing examples show that the carboxylicacid-substituted idebenone derivatives of the present invention aresurprisingly effective compounds for treating skin changes withincreased skin tolerance. In particular, these examples and data showthat these carboxylic acid-substituted idebenone derivatives havebeneficial antioxidant properties and exhibit the particularlyadvantageous property of increased skin tolerance.

All publications, patents, articles, and other references cited and/ordiscussed in this specification are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety and to the same extent as if each reference wasindividually incorporated by reference.

1. A method of treating red or brown pigmented skin comprising topicallyadministering a composition comprising a therapeutically effectiveamount of idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate to a subject in need thereof.2. The method of claim 1, wherein the red or brown pigmented skin iscaused by UV damage.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the red or brownpigmented skin comprises erythematous symptoms.
 4. The method accordingto claim 1, wherein the idebenone dipalmitoyl glycerate is present in anamount of 0.1 wt % to 2.0 wt % based on the total weight of thecomposition.
 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the idebenonedipalmitoyl glycerate is present in an amount of about 0.5% based on thetotal weight of the composition.